BC Ferries has announced a festive gift for holiday travelers this year, adding 152 extra sailings between Vancouver Island, Metro Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast.
Running from December 21st to January 1st, these additional sailings aim to accommodate the surge in holiday traffic during this merry season.
The bulk of these extra sailings includes 112 trips between Tsawwassen and Swartz Bay, 34 between Horseshoe Bay and Departure Bay, and an additional six on the Horseshoe Bay – Langdale route.
Moreover, BC Ferries is enhancing connectivity to the Southern Gulf Islands with more sailings for passengers traveling through Tsawwassen.
Traditionally, December 23rd experiences the highest influx of travelers heading from Tsawwassen and Horseshoe Bay terminals to Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast.
Meanwhile, December 26th and 27th witness a surge in return traffic from Departure Bay, Duke Point, Swartz Bay, and Langdale terminals after Christmas Day.
To ensure a smooth sailing experience, BC Ferries advises travelers to plan ahead.
Recognizing the reduced demand on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, the ferry schedules will be adjusted accordingly.
With 62 percent of bookable space already reserved, BC Ferries strongly recommends making reservations in advance. Timely arrival at the terminal is advised—45 to 60 minutes before the booked departure for vehicle passengers and at least 45 minutes for walk-on passengers.
As the holiday season coincides with winter conditions, BC Ferries urges travelers to stay prepared. Checking the current conditions on their website or social media platforms, arriving early to secure space, and considering alternate transportation methods like ride-sharing or transit are highly encouraged.
Adding a sprinkle of holiday magic to the journey, BC Ferries plans to track Santa Claus’s Christmas Eve journey. Starting at 8 p.m., updates will be shared on the company’s Facebook and Instagram accounts, featuring Captain Kelp and a BC reindeer equipped with a camera capturing the festive atmosphere.
Passengers can expect seasonal displays, festive trees, limited-time holiday dessert items, and special promotions at the Passages Gift Shop during their travels.
Last year, BC Ferries transported 911,000 passengers and 428,000 vehicles during the holiday season and says it is well-prepared to handle similar numbers this year.
